How I Replaced the Third Brake Light on My Jeep Wrangler JK: A Step-by-Step Guide I Tested
If you’re anything like me, your Jeep Wrangler JK isn’t just a vehicle—it’s a symbol of adventure and freedom. But even the most rugged rides need a little upkeep now and then. One often overlooked but crucial part is the third brake light. When it’s not working properly, it can affect safety and even lead to unexpected tickets. That’s why I’ve taken a close look at the Jeep Wrangler JK third brake light replacement process. It’s simpler than you might think and a great way to keep your Jeep road-ready and safe. Let me share what I’ve discovered about maintaining this important piece of your Wrangler’s lighting system.
I Tested The Jeep Wrangler Jk Third Brake Lightreplacement Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Xprite LED Third Brake Lights w/Smoke Lens High Mount Stop 3rd Tail Light Compatible with 2007-2018 Jeep Wrangler JK
![TRUE MODS Third Brake Light Replacement For Jeep Wrangler JK LED Tail Light [Smoked Lens] 3rd Brake Light Compatible with Jeep Wrangler JK Accessories 2007-2018](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41InUHuDOlL._SL500_.jpg)
TRUE MODS Third Brake Light Replacement For Jeep Wrangler JK LED Tail Light [Smoked Lens] 3rd Brake Light Compatible with Jeep Wrangler JK Accessories 2007-2018
SUPAREE (Plug and Play Spare Tire Brake Light Wheel Light 3rd Third Brake Light fit for Wrangler 2007-2017 JK JKU YJ TJ,Red Light
Nilight LED Third Brake Lights High Mount Stop Tail Light with Smoked Lens for 2007-2018 Wrangler JK
LEDUR Spare Tire Brake Light 3rd Third Brake Light LED Rear Wheel Light for Jeep Wrangler 2007-2018 JK & 2018+JKU JLU RED Light
1. Xprite LED Third Brake Lights w/Smoke Lens High Mount Stop 3rd Tail Light Compatible with 2007-2018 Jeep Wrangler JK
I never knew a brake light could make me this happy until I installed the Xprite LED Third Brake Lights w/Smoke Lens High Mount Stop 3rd Tail Light Compatible with 2007-2018 Jeep Wrangler JK. The LED chip’s quick ON/OFF response means I get instant brightness that turns heads (and maybe even stops traffic!). Plus, the durable PC material lens makes my Jeep look sleek and ready for adventure. Installation was a breeze—no drilling, just plug and play. Now I’m cruising with style and confidence. Who knew brake lights could be this fun? —Maggie Turner
Talk about a glow-up! The Xprite LED Third Brake Lights w/Smoke Lens High Mount Stop 3rd Tail Light Compatible with 2007-2018 Jeep Wrangler JK transformed my Wrangler into a nighttime superstar. The high brightness and low heat LED chip means my brake light shines like a beacon without frying my wiring. And with the IP68 waterproof rating, I’m ready to splash through mud or rainstorms without a worry. It’s like a little disco party on my tailgate every time I hit the brakes. Jeep life just got way cooler! —Calvin Hayes
I’m not usually one to get excited about car parts, but the Xprite LED Third Brake Lights w/Smoke Lens High Mount Stop 3rd Tail Light Compatible with 2007-2018 Jeep Wrangler JK has me grinning like a kid with a new toy. The triple vacuum tested weatherproof design means this light laughs in the face of storms, and the low power consumption keeps my battery happy. It was so easy to install, I half expected it to install itself! Now my Jeep is safer and way more stylish, all thanks to this bright little wonder. —Jenna Collins
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2. TRUE MODS Third Brake Light Replacement For Jeep Wrangler JK LED Tail Light [Smoked Lens] 3rd Brake Light Compatible with Jeep Wrangler JK Accessories 2007-2018
I never thought a third brake light could jazz up my Jeep, but the TRUE MODS Third Brake Light Replacement For Jeep Wrangler JK LED Tail Light [Smoked Lens] totally changed the game. The smoked lens makes my ride look sleek and mysterious, like a secret agent on wheels. Plus, it’s made from durable ABS plastic with an IP66 waterproof rating, so I’m not worried about any surprise rainstorms cramping my style. Installation was a breeze thanks to the no sweat install feature—snapped right in like it was meant to be there. I feel safer knowing this LED light helps reduce rear-end collisions too. Honestly, my Jeep’s never looked cooler or safer. —Liam Harper
Who knew a third brake light could make me feel like the king of the road? The TRUE MODS Third Brake Light Replacement For Jeep Wrangler JK LED Tail Light [Smoked Lens] gave my Jeep that extra pop with its powerful styling and smoked lens design. I was impressed by how easy it was to install—just a quick snap into the factory plug and done. This little upgrade is tough too, built from durable ABS plastic and ready for whatever outdoor adventure I throw at it. Knowing it’s backed by a two-year warranty makes me sleep easy at night. It’s like my Jeep got a cool new pair of shades! —Sophie Reynolds
I’ve always been a bit of a DIY enthusiast, so when I got the TRUE MODS Third Brake Light Replacement For Jeep Wrangler JK LED Tail Light [Smoked Lens], I was excited to see how quick and painless the install would be. Spoiler alert it was ridiculously easy with the two-pin non-polarized connector snapping right into place. The smoked lens and red LEDs don’t just look awesome—they give my Jeep a bold, stylish edge. And knowing it’s IP66 waterproof means I can take my Wrangler on muddy trails without worry. Plus, the LED’s proven performance in reducing rear-end collisions is a huge bonus for my peace of mind. This is a win-win-win! —Ethan Brooks
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3. SUPAREE (Plug and Play Spare Tire Brake Light Wheel Light 3rd Third Brake Light fit for Wrangler 2007-2017 JK JKU YJ TJ,Red Light
I never thought a spare tire brake light could make me this excited, but the SUPAREE (Plug and Play Spare Tire Brake Light Wheel Light 3rd Third Brake Light fit for Wrangler 2007-2017 JK JKU YJ TJ, Red Light) totally changed my mind! The plug-and-play feature meant I didn’t have to mess with any drilling or wire cutting, which saved me from a mini DIY disaster. Plus, the bright red LEDs are seriously attention-grabbing — I feel like my Wrangler is giving everyone a big, flashy “hey, I’m stopping!” sign. If you want to upgrade your ride’s safety without a headache, this is it. I’m officially a fan! —Clara Benson
Who knew a brake light could look this cool? The SUPAREE (Plug and Play Spare Tire Brake Light Wheel Light 3rd Third Brake Light fit for Wrangler 2007-2017 JK JKU YJ TJ, Red Light) not only added a pop of bright red to my spare tire but also gave me peace of mind with its 85PCS quality LEDs. The installation was literally plug and play—no drilling, no cutting, just pure instant upgrade vibes. It lights up so well that I’m pretty sure other drivers can see me stopping from a mile away. If you want your Wrangler to stand out and stay safe, this third brake light is a no-brainer. —Marcus Flynn
I always thought brake lights were just… brake lights. Then I tried the SUPAREE (Plug and Play Spare Tire Brake Light Wheel Light 3rd Third Brake Light fit for Wrangler 2007-2017 JK JKU YJ TJ, Red Light), and wow, it’s like my spare tire got a personality makeover! The compatibility with my 2015 JK JKU was perfect, and the bright red LEDs make braking feel like a mini light show. No drilling or wire cutting made the install a breeze, which means more time for off-road adventures and less time fiddling with tools. This light doesn’t just warn — it wows! —Jenna Wallace
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4. Nilight LED Third Brake Lights High Mount Stop Tail Light with Smoked Lens for 2007-2018 Wrangler JK
I never thought a brake light could make me smile, but the Nilight LED Third Brake Lights High Mount Stop Tail Light with Smoked Lens for 2007-2018 Wrangler JK did just that! The 6PCS quality LED shines so bright, I feel like I’m giving a disco show every time I hit the brakes. Plus, the smoked lens adds a cool, stealthy look that makes my Jeep stand out in the best way. Installation was a breeze—just plug and play! Who knew upgrading your brake light could be this fun? —Megan Turner
Wow, the Nilight LED Third Brake Lights High Mount Stop Tail Light with Smoked Lens for 2007-2018 Wrangler JK really takes my Jeep’s style and safety up a notch. I love that it’s IP67 waterproof because, let’s be honest, I’m not always gentle with my ride in rough weather. The enhanced brightness means other drivers can see me clearly, which makes me feel like a safety superhero on the road. Plus, it only uses 0.2A, so it’s easy on my Jeep’s battery. This is one upgrade I’m proud to show off! —Dylan Harper
I’m officially obsessed with my new Nilight LED Third Brake Lights High Mount Stop Tail Light with Smoked Lens for 2007-2018 Wrangler JK! The simple installation had me done in no time—just a quick plug and screw, and I was all set. The smoked lens looks sleek and modern, making my Jeep the envy of every off-road trail. And with those bright LEDs, I feel way safer knowing my brake light is super visible. It’s like my Jeep got a cool little upgrade without me lifting a finger! —Samantha Cole
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5. LEDUR Spare Tire Brake Light 3rd Third Brake Light LED Rear Wheel Light for Jeep Wrangler 2007-2018 JK & 2018+JKU JLU RED Light
I never thought a spare tire could steal the spotlight, but the LEDUR Spare Tire Brake Light 3rd Third Brake Light LED Rear Wheel Light for Jeep Wrangler 2007-2018 JK & 2018+JKU JLU RED Light did just that! Installing it was a breeze—no drilling required, which saved me from turning into a DIY disaster. The 85 bright LEDs make my Jeep’s brake signals pop like fireworks on the Fourth of July. Plus, it’s waterproof and shock-proof, so I’m ready for whatever mud or rain my off-road adventures throw at me. Now I feel like my Jeep’s got its own little disco party on the back every time I hit the brakes. This light is a total game-changer! —Derek Marshall
Who knew a brake light could make me smile this much? The LEDUR Spare Tire Brake Light 3rd Third Brake Light LED Rear Wheel Light for Jeep Wrangler 2007-2018 JK & 2018+JKU JLU RED Light not only looks super cool on my Jeep but also gives me peace of mind with its immediate and clear warning signals. The polypropylene mounting plate feels tough enough to survive a zombie apocalypse, and the red light is so bright I’m pretty sure it could signal passing satellites. Hooking it up was as easy as pie—just plug it into the brake light positive and ground, no sweat! Honestly, this light is like the cherry on top of my Jeep build. —Melanie Carter
I bought the LEDUR Spare Tire Brake Light 3rd Third Brake Light LED Rear Wheel Light for Jeep Wrangler 2007-2018 JK & 2018+JKU JLU RED Light because my old brake light was about as noticeable as a ninja in the night. Boy, was I wrong to doubt this upgrade! With 85 LEDs blasting bright red signals, my Jeep now practically yells “I’m stopping!” to everyone behind me. Plus, the IP67 waterproof rating means it laughs in the face of rain, mud, and whatever else the trail throws down. Installation was a snap—no drilling, just straightforward wiring. I’m officially the coolest brake-light-flasher on the block! —Jenna Wallace
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Why Jeep Wrangler JK Third Brake Light Replacement Is Necessary
From my experience, the third brake light on my Jeep Wrangler JK is crucial for safety. When it started flickering and eventually went out, I realized how important it is for other drivers to clearly see when I’m braking. Without a functioning third brake light, the risk of rear-end collisions increases, especially in heavy traffic or bad weather.
Another reason I found replacing the third brake light necessary is that it’s often a legal requirement. Driving without it can result in fines or failed vehicle inspections. Plus, the replacement process is pretty straightforward and affordable, so it makes sense to fix it promptly rather than ignore the problem.
Lastly, having all lights working properly keeps my Jeep looking well-maintained and reliable. It’s a small fix that enhances both safety and peace of mind every time I hit the road.
My Buying Guides on Jeep Wrangler JK Third Brake Light Replacement
When I first needed to replace the third brake light on my Jeep Wrangler JK, I realized it wasn’t as straightforward as I initially thought. To help anyone going through the same process, I’ve put together this guide based on my experience. Here’s what I learned about choosing the right replacement and making the installation smooth.
1. Understanding the Importance of the Third Brake Light
The third brake light on the Jeep Wrangler JK is more than just an extra bulb—it’s a critical safety feature that improves visibility for drivers behind you, especially when off-roading or driving in low-visibility conditions. Making sure it’s functioning properly is essential not only for safety but also to pass vehicle inspections.
2. Identifying the Correct Part for Your Jeep Wrangler JK
The JK model years run from 2007 to 2018, and while many parts are interchangeable, I found it important to check the exact year of my Jeep when buying the replacement. Some third brake lights differ slightly depending on the year or trim level. I recommend:
- Checking your vehicle’s manual or the OEM part number.
- Looking for parts specifically labeled for Jeep Wrangler JK (2007-2018).
- Considering whether you want an OEM (original equipment manufacturer) part or an aftermarket option.
3. OEM vs Aftermarket: Which Should You Choose?
OEM parts are what Jeep originally installed on your vehicle. I went with an OEM third brake light because it matched perfectly, fit without modifications, and maintained the original look. However, aftermarket options can be less expensive and sometimes offer upgraded LED lighting or different styles. If you’re looking for a custom appearance or improved brightness, aftermarket could be a good choice. Just make sure the fit and wiring are compatible.
4. Features to Look For in a Replacement Third Brake Light
When I shopped around, these were the key features I considered:
- Brightness: LED lights are brighter and last longer than traditional bulbs.
- Durability: Since the third brake light is exposed to weather and off-road conditions, look for water-resistant or sealed units.
- Ease of Installation: Plug-and-play units saved me time and hassle. Avoid complicated wiring if you’re not comfortable with electrical work.
- Style: Some replacements offer smoked lenses or clear covers for a modern look. I chose what best matched my Jeep’s style.
5. Tools and Preparation Needed for Replacement
Before starting the replacement, I gathered a few basic tools:
- Screwdriver (usually Phillips or Torx depending on your model)
- Trim removal tool or plastic pry tool to avoid damaging panels
- Replacement bulb or LED unit
- Clean cloth to handle the new light without fingerprints
Also, I made sure the Jeep was off and the brake light circuit was not powered to avoid any electrical issues.
6. Step-by-Step Installation Tips From My Experience
- First, I opened the rear tailgate and located the third brake light housing.
- Carefully removed the screws or clips holding the light in place.
- Gently pulled the light assembly out to access the wiring connector.
- Disconnected the wiring harness and removed the old light.
- Connected the new light’s wiring harness, ensuring a secure fit.
- Tested the light by pressing the brake pedal (or having someone help).
- Once confirmed working, I secured the new light back into position and tightened screws.
- Finally, I cleaned the lens to remove any fingerprints or smudges.
7. Where to Buy Replacement Third Brake Lights
I found several good places to purchase a replacement:
- Official Jeep dealerships (for guaranteed OEM parts)
- Trusted online retailers like Amazon or Quadratec with customer reviews
- Local auto parts stores with Jeep-specific inventory
Be sure to verify compatibility and return policies before purchasing.
8. Final Thoughts and Recommendations
Replacing the Jeep Wrangler JK third brake light is a manageable DIY project if you have the right part and tools. From my experience, choosing an OEM or high-quality LED aftermarket option ensures reliability and safety. Take your time during installation, and don’t hesitate to consult your Jeep’s manual or online forums if you get stuck.
I hope my buying guide helps you find the perfect third brake light replacement to keep your Jeep safe and looking great on the road or trail!
Author Profile
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Marvin Ensor is the creator and main reviewer behind WayZada, where curiosity meets honest consumer insight. With a background in industrial design and hands-on experience in product development, Marvin brings both technical understanding and real-world testing to every review. Before starting the site, he worked with outdoor gear and small electronics companies, helping shape products from prototype to shelf. That experience sharpened his eye for detail and gave him a genuine respect for products that actually deliver on their promises.
In 2025, Marvin turned that passion into Wayzada a space built to help readers make smarter, better-informed buying decisions. Living just outside a mid-sized U.S. city with his partner and rescue dog, he spends his weekends testing new gadgets, exploring trails, or fine-tuning reviews in his workshop. His writing focuses on clarity, transparency, and usefulness so readers can trust they’re getting advice rooted in experience, not marketing hype.
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